Originally Posted by CourierDriver
Sometimes, someone will post they do their own maintenance on cars...some folks in here own over 4 and up to 10 cars....I ask this question: How in the world does someone get all that experience and skill to change out transmissions, engines and know how to fix them or rebuild them at home...you would need a lifetime of schooling IMHO plus a 1000 tools...
Anyone with any basic mechanical aptitude can do basic maintenance. Where you may differ from others is interest level. If you don't really have any interest in turning a wrench, then you're not going to make the time to do it, much less want to do any of your own maintenance or repair projects.
I, myself, enjoy wrenching, to a degree, but I dislike working on my daily driver, simply because if I get in over my head, which isn't hard, I'm screwed! So, before I tackle anything, I will do some research, watch vids, and ask the knowledgeable folks around here for some advice.
When I bought my Burb I did a lot of stuff to it because I had a second vehicle at the time. I was able to strip the interior out for a thorough cleaning and detailing, do the shocks and brakes, stuff like that. Now, the Burb is my only ride, and I can't afford to be without her, so I leave a lot of work to the mechanic who has the tools, expertise, and facilities to deal with anything that might arise during the surgical procedure. Case in point, I had them do the driver's side exhaust manifold gasket and bolts, as well as the spark plugs. I don't have the tools to drill and extract broken manifold studs, nor could I deal with a spark plug that decided to seize in the head or snap off, things which the LS motors are known for if the plugs aren't changed at or before 100K. Baby has 158K on her and I have no idea if the plugs had ever been out of her, hence, the shop did the work.
So, back to your question, interest will play the largest roll in whether you do your own work or not. Tools required will depend on how deep down the rabbit hole you're willing to go. For minor maintenance, a good basic set of hand tools is all you need. You start pulling fuel lines (modern vehicles) or digging into major components and you're going to have to start getting specialty tools for the job.